Yemeni Forces Retake Port City of Mokha, Free Thousands Held by Mercenaries

MOKHA, Yemen — Yemen's Armed Forces announced on Wednesday the complete liberation of the strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha from foreign-backed mercenaries who had held thousands of civilians captive. The operation concluded in the late afternoon local time, ending a prolonged siege that threatened regional trade and displaced a significant portion of the city's population.

The military offensive, which intensified over the past 48 hours, targeted entrenched positions held by the mercenary group across the historic port district. By mid-afternoon, government troops reported full control of key infrastructure, including the harbor facilities, the central market, and the main coastal highway. Commanders stated that the primary objective was to secure the city and immediately release the thousands of residents detained by the occupying forces.

Eyewitnesses in Mokha described scenes of jubilation as soldiers moved through the streets to locate and free hostages. Local officials confirmed that rescue teams are currently processing detainees, providing medical aid, and reuniting families separated during the occupation. The mercenaries, described by Yemeni authorities as foreign operatives backed by external interests, had established a tight grip on the city for months, restricting movement and controlling access to essential supplies.

The fall of Mokha marks a significant shift in the ongoing conflict in southwestern Yemen. The port is a critical node for maritime trade and has long been a focal point of contention between rival factions. Its recapture by national forces removes a major stronghold for the mercenary group, which had used the city as a base to launch raids into surrounding governorates.

While the military declared the operation a success, humanitarian organizations warn that the immediate aftermath poses severe challenges. The city's infrastructure has suffered extensive damage during the fighting, and thousands of displaced residents remain in temporary shelters on the outskirts. Aid groups are rushing to assess the scale of destruction and deliver food, water, and medical supplies to the liberated population.

Questions remain regarding the fate of remaining mercenary fighters who may have fled into the surrounding countryside or adjacent territories. Military spokespeople indicated that pursuit operations are underway to prevent the regrouping of hostile forces. Additionally, international observers are watching closely to see how the liberation affects broader diplomatic efforts in the region, particularly as global shipping lanes near the port remain sensitive to instability.

As night fell over Mokha, searchlights illuminated the harbor where rescue boats were still active. The focus now shifts from military victory to reconstruction and the complex task of reintegrating a city that has endured months of captivity and conflict.